Houston Rockets: 2019-2020 season player grades

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 10: James Harden #13 of the Houston Rockets reacts during the third quarter against the Los Angeles Lakers in Game Four of the Western Conference Second Round during the 2020 NBA Playoffs at AdventHealth Arena at the ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on September 10, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

5 of 10

Houston Rockets Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images /

Houston Rockets grade: P.J. Tucker

P.J. Tucker is one of the most underappreciated guys in the entire NBA. Tucker guards the opposing team’s best players on a nightly basis, always brings tremendous energy and effort to the floor, and is one of the league’s best corner 3-point shooters, but often fails to get the recognition he deserves.

While Tucker’s 6.9 points and 6.6 rebounds per game do not jump off the page, he was key to the Rockets success. The 6’5″ Tucker served as Houston’s so-called “center” due to the Rockets’ small-ball philosophy.

Related Story. 50 greatest duos in NBA history. light

But Tucker was able to make up for his lack of size with his energy and effort he has on defense, something he takes great pride in. The sheer fact that Tucker held his ground on a nightly basis against guys that had at least six inches on him speaks for itself.

Offensively, Tucker led the league in corner 3-pointers made with 90. The one downside to Tucker’s game is that whenever he gets the ball and is not in one of the corners he fails to square up and face the basket, eliminating himself as a scoring threat.

Overall, the 35-year-old had another solid season and excelled in playing the role the Rockets asked him to.

Season Grade: B+

Home/Houston Rockets